Public exhibition begins for Lachlan surface water resource plan

The NSW Government has commenced public exhibition of the draft Lachlan Surface Water Resource Plan.

The plan is one of 20 Water Resource Plans in NSW being released for public comment. The water resource plans are a key requirement of the Murray-Darling Basin Plan.

The draft Lachlan Surface Water Resource Plan incorporates the water sharing plans for the Lachlan unregulated and regulated water sources and the Belubula regulated water source.

Groundwater in the area is not included, and is covered by separate water resource plans.

The water resource plans have been developed with feedback and advice from a stakeholder advisory panel made up of national, state and local interest groups including scientists and councils, landholders, farmers, crop growers, irrigation, mining, environment and First Nation groups.

Department of Industry – Director Water Planning, Peter Hyde said consulting with communities is an essential part of developing and finalising these water resources plans, including working with First Nations peoples in the region.

“Water resource plans outline how each region aims to use water for the community, for cultural purposes, the environment and the economy. The plans ensure state water management rules meet the Basin Plan objectives.

“Lachlan water users can now go online, review the draft plan and provide feedback. They are encouraged to attend one of the public information and feedback sessions happening in early December,” he said.

The draft Lachlan Surface Water Resource Plan, including the draft water sharing plans, will be on public exhibition until 1 February 2019.

Public information and feedback sessions are being held at the following locations: